Michaela Meade
Whittlesea Ranges are hoping to have performed well enough in the National Premier League season to maintain their tier three status.
Coach Alfredo Costantino said Ranges’ performance in the NPL competition was not what he had expected “up until three games ago”.
“Personally I was not happy with the attitude and mentality with which the boys faced the games,” Costantino said.
“[However], in the last three matches played against Western United, against Melbourne Victory, and finally, the well-deserved and sweaty victory against Melbourne City, we began to see the results of a different disposition on the pitch, but above all with a right mentality and spirit of sacrifice shared by all.
“These latest team performances comfort us and give us confidence for the future.”
In the last three games prior to Melbourne’s sixth COVID-19 lockdown, which has halted all community sport, the Ranges had suffered a defeat 2-1 against Western United, drew with Melbourne Victory 1-1, and clinched the victory against Melbourne City 2-1.
Ranges are currently sitting 10th on the ladder with 11 points. They are ahead of Springvale White Eagles and Ballarat City, sitting on nine and four points respectively.
Costantino said the aim for Ranges this year is to avoid relegation.
“Our primary goal for this year is to stay at this level,” he said.
“Then for next year, we need to sit down with the club as soon as we know how this season will end and plan the future of the club.
“[We need to] build a base – players and staff – and fight together to bring the name of the club to the level it deserves, but without forgetting to develop the young players, and help them achieve their dream.”
If restrictions allow, Ranges will face-off against the North Sunshine Eagles on Saturday, September 4.
